The southwest coast of the Baja peninsula is essentially one long sandy beach interrupted occasionally by headlands or rocky outcroppings. The limited access makes some of these beaches all the more special. All are open to the public, but none staffed with lifeguards. Steep drop-offs, rip tides, undertow and sneaker waves make swimming dangerous, except on a few somewhat sheltered stretches. Directions are essential because access roads to all the beaches are unimproved and unmarked. Persistence and a sense of adventure are also handy.

North of Todos Santos

Playa Las Pocitas: Constant waves and undertow make it more suitable for walking or surfing than for swimming. Take the road Topete in town north through the palm valley (Callejon) and follow the dirt road.

Playa la Pastora: Another long beach, best for advanced surfing. Also take Topete north of town until road turns to dirt, then follow it past signs for Batequitos. A little tough to find the turnoff.

South of Todos Santos

Playa Punta Lobos: A lovely beach also used by the local fishermen to launch their skiffs. You can buy fresh fish daily. Drive south of town to Highway Km. 54, then west on dirt road 1.5 miles.

Playa las Palmas: Undisputably one of the best beaches in Baja, it is just a quarter-mile long, very secluded and good for swimming although rarely offer surf. South of town to Km. 57, then turn off on a dirt road across from the Campo del Experimento (blue roof), 1.5 miles to ocean.

Playa San Pedrito: A popular surfing beach also called El Pescadero after the fishing village nearby. South of town to Km. 59, then dirt road 1.5 miles to the beach.

Playa los Cerritos: This miles-long stretch of sand is the safest swimming beach near Todos Santos and the site of a major new development. It’s family friendly with a bar and restaurant on the beach and showers. South to Km. 64 and 1.5 miles to beach.